How To Avoid A Headache From Drinking Wine

Sometimes the only way to get through a long work week or freezing winter night is to break open a bottle of wine. Whether you're sipping solo or killing a few corks with friends, a glass of vino is more relaxed than stirring up a cocktail and smoother than most beers. But it's also the cause of the highly dreaded wine headache.

So is there a way to avoid one altogether? Yes, though there's some science you need to know upfront.

While people often cite sulfites as the root of your pain, experts argue this is highly unlikely. A wine chemist told the Chicago Tribune that people assume the "contains sulfites" label is a warning and turn it into a scapegoat. However, he points out, sulfites either occur naturally during fermentation or are added solely to preserve the wine and prevent it from oxidizing. They're even commonly used on foods in salad bars to keep them from browning.

So then what is it? Tyramine (an amino acid that can affect blood pressure) and tannins (the stuff that makes wine dry or "bitter") are most likely to blame. According to registered dietitians, tyramine can cause migraines for people who have trouble breaking down the substance. The risk for your headache doubles when you consume aged cheeses, which are also high in tyramine, making that wine and cheese happy hour such a regrettable decision. As for the tannins, some phenolic compounds related to them can open blood vessels, which is the first step to triggering a headache.

Now here's what you can do about it:

Get caffeinated.

Drinking two cups of strong coffee before pouring your wine can help, according to Dr. Seymour Diamond, executive chairman of the National Headache Foundation. This is because caffeine constricts blood vessels, stopping them from opening up (and causing a headache).

Stick to lighter reds.

Try sticking to lighter shades of red wine, or even lighter-bodied wines like pinot noir, because they have lower levels of tannin. Or opt for a white wine instead.

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.

Drink good ol' H2O before and during your drinking session. Water will help dilute the effects of your vino and keep your body well hydrated to prevent and combat the toll of a headache.

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